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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a light celebration on your plate, the Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant, aromatic meal brings together tender red snapper fillets kissed by a symphony of garlic, fragrant herbs, and a lively blend of spices, all roasted to perfection alongside colorful vegetables. The combination creates not just a feast for your taste buds but also a visually stunning plate that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and comfort in equal measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is wonderfully simple. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. From the spices that add warmth and zest to the fresh herbs bringing an aromatic brightness, these essentials come together effortlessly.
- 2 snapper fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning: Adds a smoky, spicy depth that elevates the fish.
- 1 tsp garlic paste (or 3 cloves minced): Infuses the dish with a rich, savory punch.
- 1 tsp lemon pepper: Brings a citrusy zing that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp paprika: Imparts a subtle smokiness and a beautiful color.
- Fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme (or dried herbs – use 1–2 types): These fragrant herbs are the heart of the dish, enhancing its garden-fresh appeal.
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional): For those who love a touch of heat, this adds a gentle kick.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Helps marry the flavors and ensures moisture throughout baking.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a luscious finish to the fish.
- Salt, to taste: Essential to balance and bring out the seasoning.
- Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers (or other vegetables of choice): Provide vibrant color, sweetness, and crunch.
- Lemon slices: Used to top the fish, imparting fresh citrus aroma while baking.
How to Make Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures your snapper will cook evenly and develop a delicate crust without drying out, setting the stage for a beautifully baked fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic paste, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, your chosen herbs, optional chili flakes, olive oil, and salt. This marinade is the flavor powerhouse that will penetrate the snapper and vegetables alike, infusing them with a zesty, herbaceous character.
Step 3: Marinate the Snapper
Pat your snapper fillets dry to help the marinade adhere better. Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each fillet, but hold back about two teaspoons to season the vegetables. This ensures every element of your dish is perfectly flavored.
Step 4: Season the Vegetables
Chop your chosen vegetables—carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, or any favorites—into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in the reserved marinade and spread evenly in a baking dish. These veggies will roast alongside the fish, soaking up the delicious seasoning and roasting to sweet perfection.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Place the marinated snapper fillets gently on top of the bed of vegetables. Dot each fillet with a tablespoon of butter, and top with fresh lemon slices. The butter adds that silky richness while the lemon slices steam atop the fish, bathing it in citrus aroma as it cooks.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the fish uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The snapper is ready when it flakes easily under a fork and the vegetables are tender and caramelized. This final step melds all the flavors, giving you a dish that’s both light and rewarding.
How to Serve Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional basil over the top just before serving adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor. If you want a little more zing, a quick drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can truly elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple, complementary sides. Think fluffy jasmine rice or creamy garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the juices. A crisp green salad or steamed asparagus can round out the meal with fresh, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the snapper fillets on large white plates with the roasted vegetables nestled around the fish like a colorful frame. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can create a restaurant-quality touch that surprises and delights your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked red snapper and vegetables in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and enjoy within two days to maintain the fresh, vibrant flavors.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your leftovers, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. For best texture and taste, consume within one month.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the fish rubbery; instead, warm slowly to preserve the flaky texture and herbal aroma.
FAQs
Can I use frozen snapper fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before marinating, so the seasoning sticks well and the fish bakes evenly.
What can I substitute if I don’t have all the herbs listed?
Feel free to use whatever fresh or dried herbs you have on hand. Rosemary and thyme are particularly great, but even just basil or oregano will still make this dish delicious.
Is the chili flakes addition necessary?
Nope! Chili flakes are optional and only add a slight heat boost. You can skip them if you prefer your dish mild or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
How do I know when the snapper is fully cooked?
The best sign is when the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Depending on your fillet thickness, baking time will vary but shouldn’t exceed 30 minutes.
Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?
Yes! While red snapper is ideal for its texture and flavor, similar firm white fish like grouper, cod, or sea bass will also work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and joyful about preparing the Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to impress guests. The freshness of herbs paired with the gentle warmth of spices creates a dish you’ll want to keep coming back to. So grab your ingredients and enjoy the effortless magic that this recipe delivers—you won’t regret it!
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Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs recipe features tender snapper fillets infused with a flavorful blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, lemon pepper, paprika, and fresh herbs. Baked atop a bed of seasoned vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers, this dish is a healthy, aromatic, and easy-to-make meal perfect for a nutritious family dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 2 snapper fillets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic paste (or 3 cloves minced)
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme (or 1-2 types of dried herbs), amount to preference
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Vegetables
- Carrots, chopped (quantity to preference)
- Tomatoes, chopped (quantity to preference)
- Bell peppers, chopped (quantity to preference)
- Lemon slices (2 slices, one per fillet)
- 1 tbsp butter per fillet (included above with fish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the snapper evenly and perfectly.
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic paste, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, fresh or dried herbs, chili flakes (if using), olive oil, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse the fish and vegetables.
- Marinate Fish: Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels. Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each fillet, reserving about 2 teaspoons of marinade for the vegetables to enhance their flavor.
- Season Vegetables: Toss the chopped carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers with the reserved marinade until well-coated. Arrange the vegetables evenly in a baking dish to create a flavorful base for the fish.
- Assemble: Lay the marinated snapper fillets on top of the bed of vegetables in the baking dish. Place 1 tablespoon of butter on each fillet and top each with a lemon slice to add moisture and a fresh citrus aroma as it bakes.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 to 30 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender. Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Notes
- If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of each instead of fresh.
- Adjust chili flakes quantity based on your desired spice level or omit if you prefer mild flavors.
- You can substitute the vegetables with any of your favorite roasting veggies such as zucchini or asparagus.
- Be careful not to overbake the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
